By Antoinette Rahn, Managing Editor
Have you ever thought about coins as treats? Although it is dinner time as I write this, my observations are not driven by hunger, unless you count having an appetite for collecting coins as a form of hunger.
In any event, this idea of coins as treats came to mind as I was reading descriptions of lots featured in the April 2020 auction presented by David Lawrence Rare & Certified Coins. Now, I know you should never buy or bid on a coin sight unseen, but the description for the top lot of the sale, an 1855-D Gold Dollar PCGS AU58 (Type 2), is certainly enticing.
As most know, the auction descriptions are as important as photos of the coins and notes on offer, and often that’s where I turn first because I love history. For instance, within the description for the 1855-D dollar that sold, we learn just how rare it is. The Dahlonega Mint produced only 1,811 gold dollars. And, if that’s not truly intriguing, the featured coin is the only D-Mint Type II gold dollar, according to the lot description.
Now, as fascinating as the historical data is, I’ve veered a bit from my initial discussion of viewing coins as treats. Here is an example of a ‘tasty’ section of the auction lot description for the 1855-D gold dollar, “The surfaces are satiny and smooth, showing no disturbances other than light clash marks. Glowing caramel-gold luster throughout adds to the stunning eye appeal.”
See what I mean about treats?
So, while I’m not sure if it’s true that the devil is in the details, I do believe when it comes to coin collecting, there is undoubtedly a level of delight present in the details.
Keep collecting, stay healthy, and safe!
About PCGS: Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) represents the industry standard in third-party certification. Visit www.pcgs.com for more information.
